ORANGE, Texas — An Orange County Sheriff's Office K9 is set to receive a bullet and stab protective vest after a donation was made from a non-profit organization.
The non-profit organization, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. donated a protective vest to Orange County K9 Rudy that will be embroidered with the sentiment "this gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s," according to a release from the sheriff's office.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a charity that provides bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement agencies throughout the United States.
This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is custom fitted and National Institute of Justice certified.
Since 2009, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,760 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, with the help of private and corporate donations.
The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate.
K9 Rudy is expected to receive the vest within 10 weeks.
For more information, to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a donation, call 508-824-6978 or visit their site.
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
